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March 24, 2026
筅xiǎn(xian3)
The character 筅 (xiǎn) refers to a bamboo brush, typically used for cleaning utensils or writing. It is often associated with traditional Chinese calligraphy and art, where brushes made from bamboo are favored for their flexibility and control.
Strokes12Radical⺮Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese culture, bamboo brushes are not just tools but symbols of artistic expression, often linked with scholars and poets who used them for calligraphy and painting.
Memory Tip
Imagine a slender bamboo stick, perfect for brushing away dust—this is your 筅 (xiǎn). The character looks like a tall, thin brush standing upright, emphasizing its purpose as a tool for delicate tasks.
Meanings of 筅
xiǎn(xian3)
1bamboo brush
2bamboo brush for utensils
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 筅
筅Simplified
12Strokes
⺮Radical
非语素字non-morpheme character (n-m.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 筅
Podcast: 筅
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AI Study Notes for 筅
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a slender bamboo stick, perfect for brushing away dust—this is your 筅 (xiǎn). The character looks like a tall, thin brush standing upright, emphasizing its purpose as a tool for delicate tasks.
Usage Notes
While using 筅, it's common to encounter the mistake of confusing it with other brush-related terms. Remember that 筅 specifically refers to a bamboo brush used for cleaning or writing, not a general brush. It's more commonly used in formal contexts.
HSK Study Tips
Although 筅 is not part of the official HSK vocabulary, it connects to other words related to traditional arts and utensils. Students should focus on recognizing the character in texts about Chinese art and culture to enhance their understanding.
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese culture, bamboo brushes are not just tools but symbols of artistic expression, often linked with scholars and poets who used them for calligraphy and painting.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 筅 with 筆 (bǐ), which means a pen or general brush. Remember, 筅 specifically refers to a bamboo brush used for cleaning or writing, while 筆 is more general.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 筅
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Cultural Notes for 筅
🏮Cultural insight
In traditional Chinese culture, bamboo brushes are not just tools but symbols of artistic expression, often linked with scholars and poets who used them for calligraphy and painting.
Word Family of 筅
Words Containing This Character1
筅xiǎnbamboo brush for utensils
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 筅 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 筅
It is used primarily for cleaning utensils or in calligraphy.
Yes, it can still be found in discussions about traditional art or tools.
